Whiplash Protection System (Whips) - Volvo 2001 V70 Operation And Care Manual

2001 VOLVO V70
pg. 10 Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)
Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) - front seats only
The WHIPS system consists of specially designed hinges and brackets on the front seat backrests and head restraints
designed to help absorb some of the energy generated in a collision from the rear ("rear-ended"). In the event of a
collision of this type, the hinges and brackets of the front seat backrests are designed to change position slightly to
allow the backrest/head restraint to help support the occupant's head before moving slightly rearward. This movement
helps absorb some of the forces that could result in the whiplash effect.
WARNING!
Any contact between the front seat backrests and the folded rear seat could impede the function of the WHIPS
system. If the rear seat is folded down, the occupied front seats must be adjusted forward so that they do not touch
the folded rear seat.
Boxes, suitcases, etc. wedged behind the front seats (see illustration above) could impede the function of the
WHIPS system.
The WHIPS system is designed to supplement the other safety systems in your car. For this system to function
properly, the three-point seat belt must be worn. Please be aware that no system can prevent all possible injuries that
may occur in an accident.
If your car has been involved in a collision, the front seat backrests must be inspected by an authorized Volvo
retailer even if the seats appear to be undamaged. Certain components in the WHIPS system may need to be
replaced. Do not attempt to service any component in the WHIPS system yourself.
If the rear seat backrests are folded down, cargo must be secured to prevent it from sliding forward against the
front seat backrests in the event of a collision from the rear. This could interfere with the action of the WHIPS
system.
The WHIPS system is designed to function in certain collisions from the rear, depending on the crash severity,
angle and speed.
Occupants in the front seats must never sit out of position. The occupant's back must be as upright as comfort
allows and be against the seat back with the seat belt properly fastened.
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